Love Story Recreates 1990s New York with Period Accuracy The 1990s era of New York City, marked by its distinct character of phone booths, newsstands, and iconic street corners, is vividly brought to life in Ryan Murphy’s Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette. The series meticulously reconstructs the city’s atmosphere from the decade, capturing details like flip phones, glass-brick lofts, and bustling magazine kiosks. Production designer Alex DiGerlando, who lived through the era as an NYU student, played a pivotal role in recreating the period’s authenticity. Recreating 1990s New York posed unique challenges, as the decade straddles the transition between the 1980s and modern times. DiGerlando noted that while the 1980s are instantly recognizable, the 1990s often feel more familiar to today’s audiences, blending elements that persist in contemporary culture. Specific anachronisms, such as horizontal crosswalk lines and modern bus lanes, required careful attention to avoid anachronisms. For instance, the team had to frame out or paint over these elements to maintain historical accuracy. Several iconic locations from the era remain unchanged, offering a rare opportunity for authenticity. The Odeon, a beloved venue, retained its original structure but required updates to match its 1990s appearance. Original mid-century bent chrome chairs and Naugahyde upholstery were restored, replacing modern plastic wicker. Similarly, the Panna II restaurant, where the fictional couple’s first date takes place, was adapted to reflect its past as part of a stacked restaurant complex. LED lighting was replaced with incandescent bulbs, and windows were dressed to mimic the era’s aesthetic. The Roxy nightclub, a key location in the series, presented a greater challenge.#ryan_murphy #alex_digerlando #odeon #panna_ii #roxy_club
